10 Fun Ways to Stay Cool in a Heat Wave

Much of America is under an intense heat wave which can be almost unbearable if you’re not fortunate enough to have air conditioning. Getting too hot can put you and your family at risk for heat exhaustion and the sometimes deadly heat stroke.

We already know to drink a lot of water, stay out of the sun during peak hours and to wear light-weight clothing. But there are several other fun ways that will keep you and your family cool. Read on to cool down.

1. Freeze your sheets. Trying to sleep when it’s hot and humid is torture. Make your bed cool by throwing your sheets and pillow cases in the freezer for a couple hours before bedtime. Make sure you put them in freezer bags first! Your bed’s cool comfort will make falling asleep a dream.

2. Bring a cold water bottle to bed. You already use hot water bottles when you’re not feeling well, why not try a cold one? Fill the bottle with ice cold water and bring it to bed. Place it under your knees or hug it to sleep.

3. Eat foods that will make you sweat. There’s a reason spicy foods are popular in some of the hottest climates in the world. When you eat something hot you sweat which triggers your body to cool off. Hot drinks and soups will work too.

4. Make fruit cubes. Put berries in ice trays and fill with water and pop them in the freezer. Once frozen, throw your fruit cubes into a tall glass of water for a refreshingly delicious beverage. Can’t stand the thought of hot coffee? Pour coffee in ice cube trays for the same idea. Your coffee won’t get watered down and you’ll still get that kick of caffeine you desire.

5. Turn your yard into a water park. Set up the good old-fashioned sprinkler. This is not only great for kids, but for adults and pets too. Set up the kiddie pool and get in. Throw a tarp down and pour water over it for a homemade slip and slide.

6. Make ice necklaces. Put small flowers in an ice tray and connect with a ribbon. Freeze and then wear. Let the necklace melt on your body to get instant relief.

7. Wear a wet t-shirt. Douse a t-shirt with cool water and throw it on. As the water evaporates your body will cool down. Do the same with a bandana.

8. Fill a large bowl with ice cold water and dip your feet in. Also dip your wrists in, which are pressure points.

9. Prepare a tea spray. Brew some peppermint tea and let cool. Pour the chilled tea into a spray bottle and then use as a body mist throughout the day. Regular ice water works too.

10. Make your home a cave. Close all of your curtains and shades to keep direct sunlight out. Don’t use your oven or dryer and keep the lights off.

About the Author...

Liz Hayes

Liz loves spending time outdoors, working out, traveling, taking in the arts, reading and catching up on TV.

Grow Your Own Pineapple Plant

DIY Sand Ornaments

In Every Job that Must be Done, There is an Element of Fun

Encouraging Cards Offer Support to Moms

Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Email us at info@momseveryday.com to learn more about becoming a partner, to ask questions about the site or to contribute content.

MomsEveryday.com is here to make Mom’s life easier. We accomplish this with the help of a variety of news sources, community journalists, and comments and suggestions from Moms like you. Some of the fantastic products and services featured on our site are sponsored by advertisers. Some of the comments and opinions expressed on this site do not reflect those of Gray Television, MomsEveryday.com, or its partners. We hope you find that some of our information will make your life easier!